Gotham FC Wins Inaugural CONCACAF W Champions Cup

MONTERREY, Mexico — NJ/NY Gotham FC made history Saturday night by winning the inaugural CONCACAF W Champions Cup, defeating Tigres UANL 1-0 at Estadio Universitario. Esther González scored the decisive goal in the 82nd minute, capitalizing on a rebound after her penalty kick was saved.

The match showcased Gotham’s dominance as they took 23 shots, 7 of which were on target, compared to Tigres’ 7 overall shots. Despite their offensive pressure, Gotham faced a strong defense led by Tigres goalkeeper Itzel González, who made several crucial saves throughout the contest.

Gotham’s journey to the final included a convincing 3-1 victory over Club America in the semifinals. Coach Juan Carlos Amorós praised his team’s performance, stating, “Now, forever, the first team to win the Concacaf W Champions Cup will be Gotham FC. These players and coaching staff — we are incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished.”

The game’s pivotal moment came late in the second half. Midge Purce was fouled inside the penalty area, granting Gotham a penalty kick. Although Itzel González saved Purce’s shot, Esther González quickly pounced on the rebound to secure the win.

Gotham’s victory not only marked their first continental trophy but also qualified them for the 2026 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup and the inaugural FIFA Women’s Club World Cup in 2028. Defender Mandy Freeman expressed her joy, saying, “I have no words. I think this has been three years in the making and to finally have this moment to celebrate.”

The team’s solid defense throughout the match limited Tigres to just one shot on target, with Gotham goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger making the necessary save. The championship win demonstrates Gotham FC’s growth in the league under Amorós, who took charge in 2023.

As Gotham FC returns to the pitch on June 7 against KC Current, expectations are high due to their recent achievements and continued momentum in women’s soccer.